A $2 Billion 'Americana-Themed' Park and Resort Is Coming to Route 66 in Oklahoma

by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 2:05 PM ET, Thu July 20, 2023

A $2 billion "Americana-themed" park and resort is coming to Route 66 in northeast Oklahoma in 2026.

American Heartland Theme Park and Resort will open just west of Grand Lake in phases beginning as early as 2025.

A large-scale RV park with cabins is scheduled to open in spring 2025, followed by the theme park and resort in 2026. The 1,000-acre entertainment development will feature a 125-acre theme park, roughly the size of Disney World's Magic Kingdom and California's Disneyland Park.

Guests can look forward to an Americana-themed environment boasting rides, live shows, family attractions, waterways and bars and restaurants.

The 320-acre Three Ponies RV Park and Campground will be the largest campground in the central U.S. with a whopping 750 RV spaces and 300 cabins in addition to amenities.

"We are thrilled to make Oklahoma the home of American Heartland Theme Park and Resort," American Heartland CEO Larry Wilhite said in a statement. "At the crossroads of the heartland, Oklahoma is an attractive location for a family entertainment destination."

"The state’s business-friendly approach and innovative partnership efforts have helped make this possible. We look forward to bringing unforgettable generational experiences to Oklahoma," Wilhite added.

"Oklahoma is excited to welcome American Heartland Theme Park and Resort," said Oklahoma State Rep. Rusty Cornwell. "Located on historic Route 66 just west of Grand Lake, the development will attract visitors from around the world to experience and celebrate the rich cultures and hometown values America has to offer."

The park's design team is led by Executive Producer Steve Hedrick and includes 20-plus former Disney Parks builders and Walt Disney Imagineers. Participating design firms include THG, FORREC and Cuningham, whose portfolios feature beloved brands such as Six Flags, Disney Parks and Universal Studios.

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